Key result
Mathematical modeling links low wall shear stress and acute bifurcations to impaired eNOS signaling.
Why the study?
The spatial variations in endothelial nitric oxide synthase signaling and ATP transport in different arterial geometries and flow conditions are not fully understood.
Population
Mathematical model of arterial bifurcations and bends with varying inner angles
Comparison
Effects of varying bifurcation angles and Womersley numbers on ATP transport and endothelial function
Design
Integrated fluid mechanics and endothelial calcium/nitric oxide synthase cellular dynamics model
Authors
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Should not alter clinical practice; leaves open validation of shear stress and bifurcation effects on endothelial function in prospective studies.
Computational modeling demonstrates that complex 3D flow fields and low wall shear stress at arterial bifurcations, particularly acute angles, impair endothelial nitric oxide synthase signaling and may promote atherogenesis.
Comerford et al. (2008) studied Atherosclerosis. Arterial geometries and 3D flow fields was evaluated on ATP concentration and endothelial nitric oxide synthase signaling. Mathematical modeling demonstrated that regions of low wall shear stress and acute angle bifurcations correspond with impaired endothelial nitric oxide synthase signaling and reduced NO availability.
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